Townland Names an Important Part of Local Heritage

Session: 2008/2009

Date: 12 March 2009

Reference: CAL 04/08/09

Townland names such as Cappagh Beg, Crossreagh East and Mullaghacall South are an important part of local heritage. That’s what the Committee for Culture, Arts and Leisure said at their meeting today in the Flowerfield Arts Centre in Portstewart.

The meeting, part of the Committee’s weekly meeting programme, discussed a research paper on townland names and considered responses from a number of councils on the issue.

Speaking after the meeting, Acting Committee Chairperson Raymond McCartney MLA said, “Townland names are a very important part of our history and local cultural heritage. It’s imperative that we do not loose this vital link with our past.

“I would urge Councils and departments to promote their use.”

The Committee also considered written evidence submitted for their inquiry into the funding of arts in Northern Ireland and discussed the Minister’s decision on the multi-sports stadium.

Commenting on the inquiry into funding for the arts, Acting Committee Chairperson Raymond McCartney MLA said, “We have a long and distinguished history of producing great arts and artists and we must continue to fund them. In the face of our present economic difficulties, the arts can and do play an important role in encouraging tourism and bringing people here.

“It is therefore vital that we get our arts funding right; that the funding contributes to a vibrant and inclusive arts scene—one that contributes to our economy and society as a whole.”